Cherry Tree Carol- J.E. Mainer (NC) c1968 REC
[From Uncle Jim O’Neal’s Rural Rhythm label; Vol. 10, released c. 1970, probably recorded circa 1968, features vocal and banjo by Morris Herbert.
J.E. Mainer (b. July 20, 1898, Weaversville, NC; d. Jun. 12, 1971) was an old-time, string band fiddler and band leader. J.E. Mainer and his Mountaineers were one of the most popular string bands of the early '30s.
R. Matteson 2014]
Cherry Tree Carol- J.E. Mainer
When Joseph was a young man, a young man was he
And he courted Virgin Mary, the Queen of Galilee,
And he courted Virgin Mary, the Queen of Galilee.
Mary and Joseph were walking one day,
There were apples and cherries to pick as you may,
There were apples and cherries to pick as you may.
Mary said to Joseph, so meek and so mild
Gather me some cherries, for I am with child.
Gather me some cherries, for I am with child.
Joseph flew to anger, in anger he flew,
Let the father of your baby gather cherries for you
Let the father of your baby gather cherries for you.
The Lord spoke from Heaven these words he did moan
Bow down low ye cherry tree while Mary gathers some
Bow down low ye cherry tree while Mary gathers some.
The Joesph took Mary upon his right knee,
Please tell little baby when your birthday shall be
Please tell little baby when your birthday shall be.
On the six day of January my birthday shall be,
When the stars and the elements shall tremble you see,
When the stars and the elements shall tremble you see.
Then Joseph took Mary upon his left knee,
Saying: Dear Lord have mercy, have mercy on me,
Saying: Dear Lord have mercy, have mercy on me.